Egypt warns of impacts of latest developments at Al-Aqsa Mosque

Egypt warned against the impacts of escalation at Al-Aqsa Mosque after the Israeli security intrusion, which resulted in a number of Palestinian injuries and an attack on Imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque Ekrima Sabri, according to an official statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.

The statement demanded Israel “stop violence against Palestinians and holy places, and to respect Palestinians’ freedom of worship, and not taking more measures that may trigger conflict and decrease the chances of reaching a comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution,” the statement read.

On Monday, the Arab League condemned what it described as “Israeli violations” after worshipers were banned from performing prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, as well as enforcing the electronic security gates.

The Israeli forces re-opened Al-Aqsa Mosque on Sunday, but the worshipers, as well as the Palestinian authorities, rejected the electronic gates. As an act of protest, several Palestinians performed the prayers outside the mosque.

On Friday, Egypt expressed its concern about violent actions in the compound of Al-Aqsa Mosque. The spokesperson warned of the impact of this incident on the peace process, as well as reviving efforts and negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis.

On Friday at noon, the Israeli forces ordered the closure of the areas surrounding Al-Aqasa Mosque after three Palestinian gunmen opened fire and shot dead two Israeli policemen. The gunmen were killed shortly afterwards.